The world of college football is abuzz with anticipation as the 2026 season approaches, and the Big 12 conference is no exception. The recent media days event provided an intriguing glimpse into the upcoming season, with one notable highlight: the absence of an official preseason media poll. This decision, stemming from the league's history of inaccurate predictions, has sparked a fascinating discussion among sports journalists and fans alike.
What's particularly interesting is the league's decision to abandon the traditional preseason poll. In 2024, the Big 12's predictions were so off the mark that they decided to discontinue the practice in 2025. This year, they opted for a more subtle approach, focusing on individual accolades and an all-conference team instead of a team ranking. It's a strategic move, as the league aims to avoid the embarrassment of inaccurate predictions while still providing some form of preseason content.
However, the void left by the official poll was quickly filled by an unofficial one. Led by veteran journalist Berry Tramel, beat writers from all 16 Big 12 schools conducted their own poll, offering a unique perspective on the upcoming season. This insider's view provides a more nuanced understanding of the conference dynamics, as these writers have their fingers on the pulse of their respective teams.
In this unofficial poll, Texas Tech emerged as the clear favorite, with 14 out of 16 first-place votes. This might come as a surprise to some, given the recent uncertainty surrounding their quarterback position due to the Brendan Sorsby situation. However, the writers seem to have faith in the Red Raiders' ability to repeat their success. BYU, with a more settled quarterback situation, came in second, highlighting the importance of stability at this crucial position.
The poll also revealed some intriguing insights about the upcoming season. Arizona and Houston tied for third, indicating a potential power shift in the conference. Utah, picked to finish fifth, is a team to watch, especially after their disappointing 2024 season. These predictions are more than just numbers; they reflect the collective wisdom of writers who intimately understand the strengths and weaknesses of each team.
Personally, I find the absence of an official league poll intriguing. It's a rare instance of a sports league acknowledging the limitations of predictions and embracing a more cautious approach. This move could set a precedent for other conferences to reevaluate their preseason practices. It also raises questions about the role of media predictions in shaping fan expectations and team strategies.
Coach Kalani Sitake's comments further add to the narrative. He reminds us that preseason polls are often inaccurate, citing BYU's 2024 success despite being picked to finish 13th. This perspective is crucial, as it encourages a more nuanced understanding of team performance, where on-field results can defy preseason expectations. Sitake's focus on humility and hard work is a refreshing take in a world often obsessed with rankings and predictions.
The discussion around the College Football Playoff (CFP) adds another layer of complexity. BYU's near-misses in 2024 and 2025 have sparked debates about the selection process. Sitake's suggestion of a 24-team CFP is thought-provoking, as it challenges the current system and invites a broader discussion about fairness and inclusivity. It's a reminder that the current format may not be set in stone and that there's room for evolution in college football's postseason structure.
In summary, the Big 12's decision to forgo an official preseason poll has inadvertently created a space for more diverse and insightful predictions. The unofficial poll by beat writers offers a fascinating insider's perspective, while Sitake's comments remind us of the unpredictability of college football. As the 2026 season approaches, these discussions add to the excitement, reminding us that in sports, the only true prediction is that the unexpected will always happen.
